OTAGO EARLY SETTLERS' ASSOCIATION

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17317, 17 May 1918, Page 6

OTAGO EARLY SETTLERS' ASSOCIATION

The annual report sets forth that the record of the year's work, considering tho very strenuous times in which we are living is satisfactory and encouraging. Daring' the vear the association lo6t 33 members by death and 20 by resignation—a total lose of 53. During the same period 204 now members were enrollod, thus showing a net gain of 151 members. The finanoial statement shows that the returns for mombers' subscriptions is the highest yet reached. Tho museum and portrait gallery continue to bo a source of great and increasing interest to members nnd their descendants and tho general public. During tho holiday season visitors from all parts of the dominion, from Australia, United States, the Homeland, and elsewhere on many occasions expressed their admiration and appreciation of tho collection. The usual outside reunion gatherings were held this year at BaJclutha and Waikouaiti. The Port Chalmers Old Identities' Association held its annual gathering at Portobcllo. A most successful anniversary social was held in the hall on the evening of Saturday, March 23 (Anniversary Day). Regret is expressed at tho death of Mr A. B. Mercer, who for a number of years was a useful member of tho committee. Hie Early Scttlere' Hall is still the home of the Women's Patriotic Association, where day by day they energetically carry on the noble work in which they have been so long- engaged.